Team USA's Rickie Fowler sensationally decided to concede a putt in his clash with Tommy Fleetwood to allow Europe to win the 2023 Ryder Cup.
On Sunday, Europe secured the 16.5-11.5 win over the United States to reclaim the Ryder Cup following the humiliating loss at Whistling Straits two years ago. The Americans' 30-year wait for a victory on foreign soil goes on as a result of the monumental European victory.
Before the defeat was confirmed, Fowler's actions led to confusion among fans and even the commentators watching on. The American conceded a putt in his singles match with Fleetwood, allowing the Englishman to secure the much-needeed half point required to win the Ryder Cup for Europe.
Fleetwood had a birdie putt of three feet on the 16th green with Fowler still yet to hole out for par. While a miss would have been unlikely, Fowler's decision to concede the hole denied Fleetwood the opportunity to hole a putt to win the trophy.
An unlikely miss from Fleetwood would have pegged him back to 1up with two holes to play, assuming Fowler made his par putt. Ultimately, it did not matter - but fans and figures were perplexed by the decision.
On air, Paul Azinger questioned whether the American should have let Fleetwood pick it up. He suggested there was 'no chance that putt will be conceded' right as Fowler conceded the putt.
